Diggers Praised

US commander praises diggers in Iraq
Mark Dodd January 17, 2008

THE US commander of coalition forces in Iraq today praised the role of Australian troops in helping bring stability to the war-battered country.

During a surprise visit to soldiers at Tallil air base in southern Iraq, General David Petraeus thanked the diggers for their contribution.

About 575 Australian combat troops serving with the Overwatch Battle Group (OBG) will come home by mid-year, filling a key Rudd Government election pledge.

A statement released by the Defence Department quoted General Petraeus as saying the Australians had done an enormous amount in Dhi Qar and Al Muthanna province, where they were previously based.

“Australian forces have helped enormously with the development of Iraqi security forces in Dhi Qar province and also in Al Muthanna,” he said.

“It's been a privilege to soldier with those who come from Australia and we are very grateful for the contribution that they've made here.”

General Petraeus met some of the soldiers and handed out medallions. Altogether, 1575 Australian Defence Force personnel are serving in the Iraq theatre of operations including 180 crew on the guided missile frigate HMAS Arunta, 100 army trainers and 325 Air Force staff helping fly and service two Orion surveillance planes and three C-130 Hercules transports.

Others who will be staying behind include the 110-strong security detachment guarding the Australian embassy and 70 personnel serving at the Australian Joint Taskforce Headquarters in Baghdad.

http://www.theaustralian.news.com.au/story/0,25197,23067609-31477,00.html